Solar Test #5 worked! But it’s a bunch of batteries and solar panels that I just don’t have room for on the Rover. Solar test #6 is on its way using only two batteries and two panels. Fingers crossed.
Here is a hand diagram showing the wiring.
Each battery is charged by its own 5v panel and has its own controller. The controllers are then connected in parallel to the LiPo Shield, and the Pi Zero W is then happy. This test ran for five days straight, with the Pi running the entire time.
Parts:
- (4) 18650 Batteries
- (4) 03962A LiPo charge Controller
- (1) Pimoroni Zero Lipo shield
- Wire silicone is the best because it’s easy to work with.
- 5v 2.5watt Solar Panels.
- Holder for 18650 Button Top Single Battery
Test #6 is running now with only two batteries in the same configuration. One thing I noticed was when I put the depleted batteries out there to start the test. The PI turned on when there was enough power. That’s a first for my solar testing. I also attached a camera to the Pi Zero W so it can send me photos of its panels, batteries, and controllers.
Next steps
- Make a photo upload service in Mission Control.
- Make a Python Script to take a photo and upload it to Mission Control.
- Servo control for steering and ESC.
- Design the new wheels with a clutch.
- Driving remotely.
- Drive test using 18650 batteries in parallel.
- Redesign, if necessary, tub to fit batteries and panels